The Connection Between Basic Wellness and Navigating Life’s Challenges
This week, I spoke with two clients who highlighted the critical importance of getting the basics right: quality sleep, nutritious food, daily movement, and consistent routines. One client was questioning her relationship, while another was doubting their life path. The common thread between both was that they were rundown, exhausted and had let their usual structured routines fall by the wayside.
It’s essential to prioritize the cornerstones of our health as physical, mental and emotional well-being profoundly influence how we perceive the trajectory of our lives. The pressures of life today often mean that our foot is to the pedal with such intensity that we don’t even realise we’re running on fumes. We barely have enough energy to get through the day without collapsing in a heap in front of Netflix and a big bar of chocolate or glass of wine in the evening.
To add the bigger existential questions on top of this feels out of reach. How can you possibly transform your life and take big bold steps outside of your comfort zone when the comfort zone is all that’s keeping you from falling apart? This is all going to feel like such a bigger challenge when you’re not looking after your core needs.
Understanding Body Signals: The Hidden Signs of Fatigue and Stress
Usually the first sign of neglecting your basic needs is the body. I saw a quote that said “the body rarely lies and the mind rarely tells the truth”. How often do we convince ourselves we’re fine – fulfilled even – after a productive week ticking off to-do lists and a full weekend of socialising to then start all over again? Yet our bodies send warning signs—fatigue, aches, and weakened immunity—when we’ve pushed ourselves too far. It’s often why we get ill when we take a holiday as the body finally has time to pause and catch up.
Emotions can also be a good indicator that something’s off. I have written another article here about the importance of listening to, rather than suppressing, our emotions. If you notice anxiety or feelings of overwhelm creeping in more than usual; this could also be a sign you’re not tending adequately to your needs. My state of mind is also generally an insight into where I’ve pushed beyond my limits. In recent years I can easily make the link between an overactive social or work calendar and the doubts and overthinking tendencies kicking in.
Many of us operate on autopilot; hyper-stimulated by pace of life, responsibilities and notifications. The irony being that sometimes this is all in the pursuance of a life we hope to live one day. Yet in doing so we are removed from the present. One day we turn around and say – where has the week gone; the year gone; the last 5 years gone? We’re left feeling depleted and further from our goals than ever.
Creating a Balanced Life: Actionable Steps to Meet Your Core Needs
So how can you consciously focus on the basics to ensure your needs are fully met? Here’s some starter ideas for you:
- Set a regular bedtime routine and stick to it, aiming for 6-8 hours of sleep to support your circadian rhythm
- Create a soothing evening routine: avoiding screens & blue light an hour before bed and incorporate a bedtime ritual: gentle stretching, meditation, or reading your favourite book with a herbal tea
- Prepare your to-do list the night before to start your day with intention and to mentally offload the night before
- Incorporate gentle morning movement to energize your body and elevate your mood
- Keep your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ until after you’ve moved your body and showered for the day to prevent notifications from disrupting your state of mind as you transition from sleep to wakefulness
- Meal prep to ensure healthy food is readily available and avoid junk food or skipped meals: think jars of overnight oats and protein rich, balanced lunches.
- Practice mindfulness in daily activities—whether through mindful eating, walking, or appreciating your first coffee without distractions – connecting to all five senses to keep you fully present in the experience
- Keep aside designated time, could be as little as five minutes to check in to how you’re feeling: either through journalling, meditation, or just a moment to sit with yourself and bring awareness to what it is you really need that day
As a Transformation Coach and wellness practitioner, I help clients make significant shifts in their lives whilst finding balance as they navigate the ups and downs of life. I understand the importance of nurturing your body, mind, and soul to feel grounded and empowered to pursue your desired life. If any of this resonates with you, feel free to reach out to explore how we can work together. You can book a discovery call here or drop me an email with any questions on balancebychaz@gmail.com.